Medically reviewed by Deborah Lenchus, MSN, APRN · Last reviewed July 2026
Not all acne scars are the same — and the single biggest reason acne-scar treatments disappoint is that the treatment was never matched to the scar type. At LuXe Concierge Aesthetics in Davie, FL, every acne-scar plan starts by identifying which of the three main atrophic scar types you have, because each responds to different tools.
Rolling scars
Rolling scars are broad, shallow depressions with soft, sloping edges that give skin a wavy look, caused by fibrous bands tethering the skin down. Because the problem is partly structural, they respond well to treatments that release and remodel: subcision, RF microneedling, medical-grade microneedling, and resurfacing with CO2 or Erbium. In selected patients, a biostimulator or filler can support the released area — an off-label use chosen on clinical judgment.
Boxcar scars
Boxcar scars are wider depressions with sharp, well-defined edges — like a thumbprint pressed into the skin. The crisp shoulder of the scar is what makes it visible, so treatments that soften that edge work best: fractional laser resurfacing (CO2 or Erbium), RF microneedling, and chemical peels for shallower versions.
Ice pick scars
Ice pick scars are narrow, deep pits — often deeper than they are wide. Because they extend deep into the dermis, surface resurfacing alone rarely fixes them. They usually need focused techniques first, then resurfacing to blend the surrounding texture.
Why most patients need a combination
Most people have a mix of scar types on the same cheek, which is why a one-device plan usually underdelivers. A typical LuXe plan sequences 2–3 modalities — for example, subcision for tethered rolling scars, RF microneedling or DP4 for overall remodeling, then CO2 or Erbium resurfacing to finish edges and texture. See how we compare devices in CO2 vs Erbium and RF Microneedling vs CO2, or read how many treatments acne scars usually take.
Wondering which approach fits your scars? Start with our acne scar treatment guide or call (754) 715-5667 to book a consultation at LuXe Concierge Aesthetics in Davie, FL.